The suspects of a Long Branch-based "G-shine" set of the bloods criminal street gang and associates are accused of being responsible for a rash of shootings in Long Branch, Neptune and Asbury Park as well as drug dealing.

The shootings led to the start up of "Operation Lights Out", a nine-month investigation led to the recovery of 35 bricks of heroin, two semi-automatic handguns (.40 and .380 caliber), $14,000.00 in cash, three vehicles, and nearly 200 grams of crack-cocaine worth about $22,500.00 on the street.

In all, 29 people arrested now face charges ranging from Racketeering, Distribution of Narcotics, Conspiracy to Distribute and/or Possess Narcotics, Unlawful Possession of Handguns, Unlawful Transfer or Sale of Firearms, Certain Persons Not to Possess Weapons and Hindering Apprehension of Another.

18 of the 32 suspects charged, all tied to the "g-shine" face racketeering charges while three others remain on the run.

An additional 11 suspects were arrested and charged with third degree Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance.

If convicted of any of the second degree charges, each defendant faces a sentence of five to ten years in prison.

If convicted of third degree offenses, each defendant faces a sentence of three to five years in prison.

If convicted of fourth degree offenses, each defendant faces up to 18 months in state prison.

"Our objective is to continue to do all that we can to make the streets of Monmouth County safe for everyone. Dismantling entrenched criminal enterprises that peddle drugs, unlawfully possess and transfer firearms and inflict violence, remains our priority," said Monmouth County Prosecutor Chris Grammiccioni. "We had great support from our law enforcement partners throughout the county and we collectively share this same goal."